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The Global Systems Laboratory (GSL) is one of ten NOAA Research laboratories and is located in Boulder, Colorado. Our research improves environmental prediction models, develops state-of-the-science decision support tools and visualization systems, and uses high-performance computing technology to support a Weather-Ready Nation.
GSL strives to advance its workforce scientifically, technically, and professionally. We are also committed to increased diversity equity, inclusion and accessibility as well as a strong foundation for career growth.
The research we do improves weather data, forecasts, and computing techniques used by industry, decision-makers, and stakeholders.
Our work makes the nation's operations safer and more efficient, helps protect lives and property, and promotes economic prosperity.
GSL’s models and technology help emergency managers respond to weather threats quickly.
Our tools help the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reduce air traffic delays and increase safety.
GSL’s weather models enable the energy industry to plan for the variable nature of wind and solar energy.
Decision support systems and smoke models developed by GSL help with wildfire operations.
GSL has a history of successfully transitioning atmospheric research into advanced products and services for weather operations.
Learn more about R2O
We are the leader in developing and evolving regional weather models. The Rapid Refresh, High-Resolution Rapid Refresh, and RAP Smoke are just a few.
Learn more about our models
GSL is part of a major community effort to develop a coupled, comprehensive Earth modeling system.
Read how GSL supports the UFS
The coupled global weather and chemistry research model, dubbed FV3-Chem, produces seven-day forecasts for a host of air quality impacts, including where dust will deliver hazy days and colorful sunsets, as well as potential breathing problems and other respiratory issues for sensitive populations. This video shows a forecast of dust...
As electricity providers increasingly add renewable energy to their portfolio, a new study shows that more accurate wind forecasts generated by a NOAA weather model is saving the utilities, and hence the consumers, big money. While wind is abundant, it is also intermittent. Utilities need accurate wind forecasts in order...
By Michael Toy, Shan Sun, Ning Wang, and Ligia BernardetNew versions of the Global Forecast System (GFS) and Global Ensemble Forecast System (GEFS) will be implemented in operations at the National Weather Service (NWS) in 2024. The GFS and GEFS are numerical weather prediction models widely used by forecasters in...
Lead research and directed development through the transition of environmental data, models, products, tools, and services to support commerce, protect life and property, and promote a scientifically literate public.
